Reproduction: African emperor scorpions are sexually mature at about 3years and conduct elaborate courtship rituals. After a 9-18 month gestation(depending on temperature and food availability), an average of 12 “scorplings” are born live--meaning that the species is viviparous. The mother scorpion provides food, protection, and a ride on her back until the scorplings are large enough to fend for themselves.

Behavior:African emperor scorpions are nocturnal and social, gathering in colonial burrows in groups of up to 15 individuals. To feed, juveniles grip prey with pincers and then strike with the stinger, but adults tend to use only their pincers. Their venom is mild (to a human it is less painful than a bee sting). When prey has been secured, the scorpion secretes digestive enzymes to pre-digest its food before consuming the liquefied parts.